GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - Hurricane season begins this weekend and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is trying to prevent the tragedies we saw last year.

He signed “ Trooper’s Law ” on Wednesday, which toughens sentences for people who tie up their dogs outside during a hurricane or natural disaster.

“I think most people have a very soft spot for our four-legged friends,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said.

The new law makes it a felony to restrain a dog outside during a natural disaster. Anyone convicted could face a five-year prison sentence and a $10,000 fine.

“If you evacuate, make sure you are taking your pets. You cannot leave a dog behind if you are in an evacuation zone,” DeSantis said.

The law is because of a now-viral Florida Highway Patrol body cam video showing a state trooper rescui

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